Posted on September 30, 2021

Transforming Your Boat Lift to a Pontoon Lift

Written by ShoreMaster Marketing

Your pontoon boat’s design makes it incredibly stable on the water. This design can also make it expensive to lift safely. If you already have a boat lift and accessories, you might be able to convert it into a pontoon boat lift as long as your pontoon boat is under 25 feet and you’re mindful of how much and where the weight is. There are three ways to convert your boat lift.

Do It Yourself

If you have a knack for building things, you could take the DIY approach. An internet search will take you to many successful conversion projects (be sure to research anything you see). Typically DIYers will convert a boat lift by positioning timbers across it and strapping them down with heavy wire, creating a place for the pontoons to sit. A lumber bed and bunks (usually nine feet apart) spanned over steel beams is also a popular approach. Making two timber bunks (2x6) set in a V pattern for each pontoon will help support the weight. Most projects will incorporate carpet or rubber over the bunks to protect the pontoons.

Buy a Rail Kit

Many manufacturers create pontoon boat lift conversion equipment kits. Conversion kits change a standard boat lift from one that works with a v-hull to one that works for pontoons or tritoons. Depending on the lift you’re working with, you might also need to add a few hull pads. The kits are a great option if you’re open to making a conversion but aren’t handy enough to build the parts. A conversion kit will be more expensive than wood and carpet from a hardware store, but if you’re looking for peace of mind, this might be a good option.

Get Professional Help

Sometimes paying someone else to do the installation is the best option for you. There’s no shame in getting professional help with your installation. If you’re not confident that you can install or upgrade your boat lift, it’s better to get some extra help than to risk damaging your watercraft.

The customer support team at ShoreMaster is available to help whenever you’re ready to purchase, install, or ask questions about boat lift options. All of our instructions are available on our website, and we have decades of waterfront experience and a passion for improving our products and your experience. To get started, contact a ShoreMaster dealer near you.